Horse Shoe Layout
Difficulty: Easy
The Horse Shoe is a classic layout. It is more advanced than the three-domino reading, yet simpler than most other layouts. It is a versatile method that can be used for most queries, though there are other layouts which would go into more depth. Like the simple Past, Present, and Future layout, it contains these dominoes in positions #1, #2, and #7, but also has four other dominoes that help the reader understand how to deal with the future better. The dominoes are to be read as follows:
- The Past: Past events affecting the question.
- The Present: The current state or approaching influence.
- Hidden Influences: Things the reader may not be aware of (or barely be aware of).
- Obstacles: This is the challenge: obstacles may be avoided or may have to be dealt with.
- External Influences: Attitudes and thoughts regarding people around the reader.
- Suggestions: Recommended course of action.
- Outcome: The result of following the suggestions.
Your Horse Shoe Reading
Obstacle![]() Two/Five (RA/TSA): The King of Power |
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Hidden Influences![]() Five/One (TSA/DHI): The House of Good Tidings |
External Influences![]() Three/Five (TSA/PA): The Demon of Afflictions |
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The Present![]() Five/Five (TSA/TSA): The Streamer of Fame |
Suggestion![]() Four/Four (NA/NA): The Mansion of Gold |
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The Past![]() Two/Two (RA/RA): Adding Butter to the Burning Flames of |
The Outcome![]() One/Six (DHI/AH): Manjushri Appears |

The Past represents past events that are affecting the question.
Two/Two (RA/RA): Adding Butter to the Burning Flames of
Increasing the Level of Joy
New beginnings and strengthened connections are ahead, whether in business, personal relationships, or spiritual practices. These unions will be successful and harmonious, as long as you remain open to change while staying grounded in your values. Embrace fresh opportunities, but be careful not to lose sight of what is important to you. This sign also favours projects involving fire, indicating that ventures related to passion, energy, and transformation will lead to significant happiness and fulfilment. However, be cautious with pursuits involving water, earth, or fixed structures, as these are not favoured at this time.

The Present represents the current state or immediately approaching influence.
Five/Five (TSA/TSA): The Streamer of Fame
Quick Settlement and Fame
This sign indicates that your popularity will rise, and despite any challenges or conflicts, you will emerge victorious. Fighting may be necessary to overcome certain obstacles, but it will ultimately lead to fame and fortune. Expect smaller, scattered pieces of wealth to arrive from various sources. If you are working with spiritual entities to clear negative energies, offering small gifts like tea will help enhance the effectiveness of your rituals. This is a time of growth and positive attention.

Hidden Influences - Things that you may not be aware of, or barely be aware of.
Five/One (TSA/DHI): The House of Good Tidings
Joyful News Arrives at the Summit of the Mountain
This sign is often called 'the wish-fulfilling tree', representing rapid growth and success. Any efforts involving communication, such as sending messages or receiving important news, will be met with favourable outcomes. It suggests that your goals can be achieved faster than expected, particularly when you focus on presenting your ideas or projects to others. The act of decoration, embellishment, or adding flair to your plans will enhance their impact, bringing positive recognition and results.

Obstacle - This is the challenge.
Two/Five (RA/TSA): The King of Power
Increasing Power and Strength
Strength is rising from within, similar to the wind that strengthens a fire. This is a time for introspection, where your dreams and inner desires will guide you towards the right decision, even if it seems unclear at first. However, it's important to harness this energy effectively, focusing it on specific goals. Now is not the time for scattered thoughts or impulsive actions. Channel your desires into clear, actionable plans, and you'll find success. Be open to unexpected surprises along the way, as they may hold the key to your success.

External Influences - Attitudes about this situation from people around the querent.
Three/Five (TSA/PA): The Demon of Afflictions
The Boiling Agitation
A turbulent sign, this pairing indicates significant emotional unrest and the threat of external disruptions, such as enemies or legal battles. You feel attacked, whether by malicious gossip, deceit, or even black magic. The source of this disturbance lies in negative, combative energy—perhaps stemming from quarrels or environments where negativity breeds. Now is the time to confront these sources, address conflicts, and settle unresolved disputes. You must also channel your negative emotions into positive action. Performing rituals such as creating yellow clay stupas or honouring sacred deities will help restore balance and ward off further harm.

Suggestion - The recommended course of action.
Four/Four (NA/NA): The Mansion of Gold
Placing One Great Thing upon Another Great Thing
This is an extraordinarily favourable sign of prosperity and abundance. Wealth and resources will flow into your life, and your projects will meet with success. This period is ripe for rituals involving earth energies and wealth creation, such as the construction of stupas, shrines, or offerings of gratitude. The abundance you experience will extend to your material world, but be cautious: any efforts focused on destruction or negative energy will not yield favourable outcomes. Additionally, be prepared for delays in travel or the shifting of plans; patience is key, as the universe works in its own timing.

The Outcome - What will happen if the suggestion is followed.
One/Six (DHI/AH): Manjushri Appears
The Increasing of Wisdom and Accomplishment of Excellence
The presence of this domino signifies a divine intervention or guidance. Manjushri, the revered deity of wisdom and clarity, is making his presence known to you. This powerful sign calls for introspection and a commitment to finishing unresolved tasks or projects. By addressing and closing the chapters you've left open, you will unlock new opportunities for growth and success. Meditating on or visualizing Manjushri's wisdom will help guide you towards the right path, bringing clarity and progress. Complete what you started, and the rewards will follow.